Whitsunday region on watch for localised flooding

WHITSUNDAY Regional Council is urging residents and businesses in the region to be prepared for the possibility of heavy rainfall over the weekend which could cause localised flooding.

Mayor Jenny Whitney, who chairs the Whitsunday Disaster Management Group, said that the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for parts of Queensland including the Whitsunday region.

"A coastal trough is expected bring widespread showers, storms and rain areas with 24 hour rainfall totals of 50 to 100mm with locally heavy falls of up to 300mm possible about the coast and nearby ranges," Mayor Whitney said.

"The rainfall may persist over some areas for more than 24 hours," she said.

"Our local Don and Proserpine Rivers are also on flood watch with river level rises above minor flood level likely.

"Businesses and residents in low lying areas should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings and take precautions should flooding develop."

Mayor Jenny Whitney also said the installation of the new flood camera on Shute Harbour Road, Hamilton Plains would allow members of the community to view up-to-date footage of the road on council's website.